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$page->title = "How do I grow in my relationship with Jesus";
$page->date  = "2014/03/23";

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$page->blurb = "How do I grow in my relationship with Jesus";

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<p>One of the most common questions Christians ask and wrestle with is "how do I grow in my relationship with Jesus?"
This question especially pops up after sermons like last Sunday&rsquo;s when we talk about true transformation happening from
the inside out not from the outside in. The bottom line: when our hearts change, our lives will begin to change.</p>

<p>But how does that happen? What are we supposed to do? Do we just sit back and twiddle our thumbs and wait on God to
do His thing? Great questions.</p>

<p>There are three parts to our spiritual growth. You&rsquo;ll hear us use this language a lot as we talk about making
disciples to change the world. I hope it it&rsquo;s helpful to you in answering those questions and in giving you some track
to run on in your relationship with Jesus:</p>

<ol>

<li><b>God&rsquo;s Part:</b> Ultimately we need God, through the Holy Spirit, to change our hearts. Our hearts are dead, defiled,
and rebellious. As God reveals Himself to us and draws us to Him through the gospel, our hearts are softened and
ultimately transformed by His grace. When we place our faith in Jesus, we are made alive and are new creations.</li>

<li><b>My Part:</b> In response to God&rsquo;s grace my desires begin to change. I long for more of Him. In response to grace I
gladly connect with a church, engage in Bible Study and prayer, long to hear the Word preached/taught, fill my mind with
the things of God, change damaging habits, etc. I&rsquo;m not satisfied to only be a hearer - I want to be a doer, so
application of what I am learning is huge.</li>

<li><b>Our Part:</b> I realize I simply cannot grow on my own. My heart, though made new, still battles my old nature every
day. I am prone to wander. So, I need community. I need others in my life who will love me, shepherd me, correct me,
teach me, hold me accountable, pray for me, etc. This is why the local church is vital for us. You cannot grow as a
follower of Jesus in isolation. We&rsquo;re in this together.</li>

</ol>

<p>So, where are you? Have you responded to the gospel and trusted Jesus as Savior? Are you regularly filling your mind
and heart with the Word, praying, and applying God&rsquo;s Word to your life? Are you connected in community that will help
you continue to grow?</p>

<p>If you have questions or would like help taking the steps we talked about here, please let us know. We would LOVE to
come alongside you and help you take steps to be a disciple who changes the world.</p>

<p>God is doing great things at NRHC and I am so excited about what is ahead as we start planning for Easter. I&rsquo;ll see
you Sunday!</p>

<p>Until All Hear,<br> Jay</p>
